Portland metro Thursday traffic: Work on Oregon City tunnel slows traffic on OR 99E

Improvements to the tunnels on OR 99E just south of Oregon City began on Wednesday and will delays travelers with up to 20 minute closures at night and lane closures during the day through the summer of 2019.

The Oregon Department of Transportation and the City of Oregon City will work on the vehicle and pedestrian tunnels south of the city installing new lighting and a variable message sign south of the tunnel, updating electrical systems, and improving old fixtures. Most of the work will be done at night to minimize traffic impacts.

Travelers can expect flaggers directing traffic through single lane closures 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays. Night time closures will vary and last up to 20 minutes between 10 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Walkers and bicyclists can use the pedestrian tunnel with only minor delays, but use caution in the work zone and limit personal distractions (cell phones, music) through the work area.

Snow and ice in the Columbia River Gorge through Thursday morning could delay travel on Interstate 84 from Cascade Locks eastward. Use caution and be prepared for winter driving. Many gorge area schools have closed or delayed classes on Thursday. Check here for the latest: School delays.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation will host an open house to hear comments from residents on the proposed Southwest Multnomah/Garden Home Intersection Safety Project. PBOT has initiated the project to either build a roundabout at Southwest Oleson and Garden Home roads or to install a signal at that intersection. The open house is 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 17, Garden Home Rec Center, 7475 SW Oleson Road. Those who can not attend the open house can take the online survey or contact PBOT directly: 503-823-5185.

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